Hi All,
I'm interested in studying martial arts for self-defence, but I'm a bit concerned about the buddhist and taoist links a lot of martial arts clubs seem to have. Do any of you guys have suggestions about what sort of styles I should look for?
You'll have to use discernment, as there are worldly philosophies taught in many martial arts schools - not just buddhist and taoist! Also, understand that there is no magic art that is so much better than the rest. It may seem like that, but the truth is that they all have strengths and weaknesses!
I assume that you're not necessarily looking for something traditional? In that case, you might look into Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, or mixed martial arts. They are very "fight" oriented, and are (typically) not all about teaching a taoist philosophy. If you're wanting something that looks more like the traditional "karate", you might look for an American Kenpo School (my roots are here, so I'm partial). They are very modern in approach, not pushing buddhist philosophy, and typically good stuff (although most don't really use groundfighting). If you want something that's good for self-defense, you need both stand-up/striking and joint-manipulation, as well as ground skills.
Where are you? I've got contacts, so might be able to point you in a direction. PM me if you want.
"[Irresistible grace] is not external compulsion, which would destroy human free agency, but an inward compulsion by which the sinner becomes willing."
Our cadets are being taught Krav Maga, which is an Israeli system. No philosophy other than "hurt the other guy fast."
You might also find a school that teaches a mixed martial arts system that combines some type of grappling with a boxing/striking aspect. Alot of fights end up on the ground, which is where the grappling comes in handy.
What would be a good martial arts program for a five year old boy just starting out? I'm mostly looking for something that will teach and encourage respect and self discipline.
What would be a good martial arts program for a five year old boy just starting out? I'm mostly looking for something that will teach and encourage respect and self discipline.
Kenpo because grappling is included within the program. The key is finding a good dojo with a good sensei who is not just after money by upselling.
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i agree with jackieboy, i took krav maga for a year or so and you pretty much learn how to disable the enemy before he has a chance to react.
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I have been out of martial arts for a while, but I took about 4-5 years of "global martial arts," which included grappling, self-defense, and traditional Tang Soo Do. I have also participated a little bit in several Tang Soo Do schools and a very small amount in a Kenpo school. I also observed one class of Akido. All of the instructors I have had were Americans who either did not care about the eastern mysticism or pretended that they did as wannabes.
Concerning the links of eastern mysticism, I would say that you should know your boundaries and seek the style you desire. Visit schools and get permission to observe a class. Most schools allow you to watch and/or participate in one class for free. You could always interview the instructors. Most of them in America are honest and realize that Americans are diverse in their religions and would be hesitant to press any kind of religion on a group of diverse students.
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